ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the unique and socially unacceptable ambiguous grief as related to drug and alcohol addictions. Many in the community, including some family members of the substance abuser, do not accept that chemical addiction is a disease of the brain. As such, family members often feel judged and stigmatized by outsiders. Unlike other diseases, family members, especially parents, often develop a high level of guilt for not being able to control the destructive addictive behaviors. The ambiguous grief of addictions is discussed in the areas of family dysfunction, loss of dreams and expectations, and physical safety. This often leads to family secrets, shame, and embarrassments. Clinical recommendations of community support, individual counseling, education, and spirituality are presented. Additionally, the often-overlooked grief of the addict is discussed, and clinical suggestions are discussed for addiction counseling.
